In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West provides critical updates on public health and safety concerns affecting the Kankakee County area. The report begins with the confirmation of a second case of Legionnaire’s disease at the Shapiro Developmental Center, including what state officials are saying about the situation.

As the region remains under an extreme cold warning, the episode features expert advice from local medical and veterinary professionals. Learn the specific symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite to watch for in humans, as well as essential precautions for protecting outdoor and exotic pets during record-low temperatures.

Other highlights in this update include:

• A comprehensive list of warming centers available throughout Kankakee, Bourbonnais, Bradley, and Momence.
• The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office report on using drone technology to monitor water levels and potential ice jams on the Kankakee River.
• An update on local government efficiency and the results of the Kankakee County bulk buying program.
• Indoor weekend event highlights to help residents stay active while avoiding the elements.
• A full roundup of regional sports, including updates on the Bulls, Blackhawks, and Fighting Illini.

For the full details on these stories and expert safety recommendations, listen to the complete episode.

Cover photo for this episode by, Stephen Case.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West covers a wide range of stories affecting Kankakee County and the state of Illinois. From a looming weather emergency to significant local government decisions and public health trends, this update provides essential information for the community.

In This Episode:

• Weather Alert: An extreme cold warning is set to take effect. We share the specific timing for sub-zero temperatures and the dangerously low wind chills expected for our area.
• Public Safety & Crime: Reports on a multi-vehicle crash on Route 17 that resulted in hospitalizations, plus details on a unique burglary investigation currently underway by Bradley police.
• Local Governance: Updates from the Kankakee County Board regarding veteran support services and the upcoming primary election cycle.
• Economic & State News: A look at Illinois' national ranking for business startups and the Governor's latest push for year-round fuel requirements to support the state's agriculture industry.
• Regional Headlines: A significant sentencing in a Champaign County murder case and a breakdown of a recent vote by the Manteno Village Board regarding national security screenings.
• Health & Lifestyle: Encouraging new data from the American Heart Association and expert advice on why your holiday plants might be struggling this month.
• Sports: A recap of the Fighting Illini’s recent winning streak and a look ahead at the schedules for the Wildcats, Bulls, and Blackhawks.

Listen to the full episode for the complete details, expert reports, and local insights.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Stay informed with the latest developments across the Kankakee and Jasper County regions in this edition of the WVLI News Update. Host Rob West provides a comprehensive look at the headlines shaping the community, from significant health alerts to local law enforcement updates.

In this episode, we cover several critical stories, including:

• Public Health Alert: The Illinois Department of Public Health confirms a case of Legionnaire's Disease at the Shapiro Developmental Center.
• Public Safety and Investigations: Updates on a rural arson investigation in Jasper County and a weekend gun arrest following a foot pursuit in Kankakee.
• Local Infrastructure and Zoning: Ongoing discussions between the Kankakee City Council and Aqua Illinois regarding the expansion of the water treatment plant on Cobb Boulevard.
• Community Leadership: The swearing-in of new law enforcement officers in Bourbonnais and Kankakee, plus the appointment of a new Deputy Chief for the Kankakee Fire Department.
• Consumer Safety: An FDA warning regarding the accidental shipment of previously recalled tuna to stores across Illinois and Indiana.
• Tax Season Readiness: Important dates and recommendations from the Illinois Department of Revenue for the 2025 filing season.
• Regional Sports: Scores and upcoming schedules for the Bulls, Blackhawks, and local collegiate teams.

The broadcast also includes a detailed report from Jake LaMore on a local battery investigation and the Crime Stoppers Tip of the Week regarding a high-value theft in Bourbonnais.

Listen to the full episode for complete reports, specific location details, and expert commentary on these developing stories.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Stay informed with the latest developments across the Kankakee area, Illinois, and Indiana in this episode of the WVLI News Update with Rob West. This update covers a broad range of local events, public safety concerns, and legislative updates affecting the community.

In this episode:

• Commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: A look back at the weekend’s celebrations in Kankakee, including award ceremonies and community services held at local landmarks.
• Regional Safety and Incidents: Reports on a recent seismic event in Central Illinois and an investigation into a high-profile shooting involving a member of the Indiana judiciary.
• Legislative Priorities: 79th District State Representative Jackie Haas discusses her agenda for the new session, focusing on public safety and tax relief.
• Market Shifts in Sports Betting: Analysis of how recent tax changes and platform fees are impacting the volume of wagers across Illinois.
• Community News: The return of a seasonal local tradition with a new flavor profile and updates on judicial retirements in the region.
• Sports Desk: A major championship victory for a regional college football program and upcoming schedules for the Blackhawks, Bulls, and Fighting Illini.

Listen to the full episode for in-depth reporting on these stories and more.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Join Rob West for this edition of the WVLI News Update, bringing you the latest headlines affecting the Kankakee Valley and surrounding areas.

In this episode, we break down a severe cold weather advisory currently in effect, detailing dangerous wind chills and the frostbite risks you need to prepare for today. We also cover local observances and closures for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including details on an ecumenical service in Bourbonnais.

Topics covered in today’s update include:

• Weather Alert: Essential safety information regarding the extreme cold and wind chill warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
• Local News: Firefighters battle a detached garage fire on Oak Park Avenue hampered by frozen equipment, and the Kankakee Fire Department announces the appointment of a new Deputy Chief.
• Traffic Investigation: Details on the "industrial soap" incident that forced the closure of northbound Kennedy Drive and the ongoing investigation into its source.
• Consumer Alert: A recall issued by Meijer regarding distilled water that may contain a foreign substance.
• Health Watch: Important information from the Iroquois County Public Health Department regarding National Radon Action Month and how to get a free test kit.
• Astronomy & Sports: Madeline Shepley shares what to look for in the night sky this Thursday, followed by a full wrap-up of the Chicago Bears' season-ending game, Bulls results, and the College Football Championship matchup.

Tune in for the full reports and stay informed on what is happening in your community.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of the WVLI News Update, Rob West covers breaking stories and local developments impacting the Kankakee Valley and beyond.

The update begins with a report on a fatal traffic accident involving a school bus on Monee Manhattan Road. Listen in for details from the Illinois State Police regarding the investigation, road closures, and the status of those involved.

In regional sports business news, the Chicago Bears have responded to a new legislative bill introduced in Indiana. The episode explores how this legislation could shift the team’s stadium search toward Northwest Indiana and what the proposed "Stadium Authority" entails for the franchise's future.

Looking for weekend plans? Angelina Gear from Visit Kankakee County joins the program to highlight upcoming events, including a wizard-themed experience in Grant Park and how to explore the Kankakee County Craft Beverage Trail.

Local crime reports include details on a "shots fired" call in Kankakee that resulted in a traffic stop and felony charges for two individuals. Additionally, Kankakee County Sheriff Mike Downey discusses the high volume of "failure to appear" warrants processed at the Jerome Combs Detention Center in 2025 and shares his perspective on how current laws are affecting law enforcement safety.

Finally, get the latest sports forecast as the Bears prepare for what could be a historically cold matchup against the Rams at Soldier Field, along with updates on the Blackhawks, Bulls, and Fighting Illini.

Tune in now to hear the full details on these headlines.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Join Rob West for this edition of the WVLI News Update, covering the top stories impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding region. From emergency response efforts to major sports headlines, we break down the events shaping your community this week.

In this episode:

• Grant Park Fire Response: Details emerge regarding a significant blaze at Woldhuis Farms and Sunrise Greenhouses, including the estimated damages and the scope of the emergency response.
• County Traffic Statistics: Kankakee County Sheriff Mike Downey breaks down the three-year trend for traffic accidents on local roadways and identifies the most dangerous times to drive.
• Chicago Bears Relocation: Indiana Governor Mike Braun made a bold statement during his State of the State address regarding the future of the Chicago Bears.
• Weather Impact: A recap of the recent snow squalls that halted air traffic at O’Hare and forced multiple road closures across the region, including parts of I-57.
• Legislative Updates: Sheriff Downey discusses potential tweaks to the Illinois SAFE-T Act and when new details might be released.
• Political Headlines: Congresswoman Robin Kelly introduces articles of impeachment against a high-ranking federal official.
• Community Development: The City of Braidwood secures a major grant from the state for town center improvements.
• Local Events: Information on the upcoming First Responders Night at the ONU hockey game and a mobile food pantry event in Bourbonnais.
• Sports Round-Up: Scores and updates for the Bulls, Fighting Illini, Blackhawks, and the upcoming Bears matchup.

Tune in to get the full story on these developments and more.

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Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Join Rob West for this edition of the WVLI News Update, covering the latest developing stories across Kankakee, Iroquois, and Grundy counties. This episode details recent criminal investigations, significant updates from local government boards, and a look at the economic future of the region.

In this episode, we cover:

• Violent Crime Investigation: Details regarding a stabbing incident reported early Tuesday morning on North Dearborn Avenue in Kankakee.
• Courthouse Renovations: The Kankakee County Board moves forward with architectural plans and budget adjustments for the courthouse remodel.
• State Legislation: Governor J.B. Pritzker comments on potential adjustments to the Illinois Safety Act and current crime rate trends.
• Major Narcotics Arrest: Police uncover a significant amount of methamphetamine and other controlled substances during a traffic stop on I-80 near Morris.
• Economic Outlook: The Economic Alliance of Kankakee County provides an annual update, highlighting billions in local investments and major infrastructure projects.
• Rural Transportation: An update on the ongoing challenges facing rural transit services in Iroquois County following the CRRS closure.
• Fraud Investigation: Kankakee City Police announce an arrest connected to forged property documents and quit claim deeds.
• County Leadership: The Iroquois County Board appoints a new Vice Chair.
• Crime Stoppers Alert: Authorities seek assistance identifying a suspect involved in a vehicle burglary where a firearm magazine was stolen.
• Sports Round-up: Scores and schedules for the Bulls, Blackhawks, Fighting Illini, and Chicago Bears.

Tune in now to get the full story on these headlines and more.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com